It was a year of settling into change for all of us. A new home in the summer meant unpacking our household and all the familiar possessions helped everyone feel permanent. Here’s a rundown of our family…
Lauren-0ldest
It’s been quite a year for her. Being a senior and turning 18 has been a shock for us all. She’s taken advantage of all she could and her life has been busy. Her first job, school dances, old and new friends (and a special friend), last year of high school soccer, all A’s on her report card, and applying to colleges filled her year. She’s had ups and downs, but weathered them well. We’re excited to see what the new year brings for her (and us)!
Cole-tallest
Cole has probably changed the most physically this past year. He grew taller than Kirk and is hoping to keep going. Cole spent the past year very focused on his development in football. As parents, we spent the last year trying to get him focused on everything else in his life. It’s been a little bit harrowing, but we are determined! He loves his friends here and loves to hang out with them. A sure fire way to get Cole to talk to you is to ask him about his weight training. There’s lots of numbers involved without too many feelings, perfect discussion for a just-turned-sixteen year old. We look forward to an “interesting” year ahead with Cole.
Claire-Professional Teenager
Ah…our Claire, she’s 13 going on 17. Her sweet personality continues to be her saving grace! She was relieved to cross the threshold of officially being a teenager, finally, being able to embrace her essence. Thank goodness, she gives us reprieves along the way. Claire’s year has been occupied with friends, dancing, and more friends. Oh, and there’s school, which incidentally has a lot of friends also. We try to keep her busy afterschool with plenty of dance classes, which she loves.
Evan-funniest!
Evan spent the year making plans with his friends and then fitting in everything else all around that. With the help of his mobile phone, he maintains a full social schedule and we try and help him leave time for family and school. Evan shares his dad’s ability of “laser-like” focus and keeps us hopping with his intended activities. Evan loves football like his brother (I think it’s genetic, I have theories). Evan will turn 12 in a few months and we are excited for his year. I can’t believe my baby is that old!
Speaking of old…
Kirk-oldest (sorry, couldn’t resist)
In spite of our energetic children, Kirk gets the “Most patient and calmest parent Award” this year. Apparently, after his 15-year tenure at Sprint, teenagers are a cake-walk. Kirk’s also the appointed (by me), stay-up-until-the-kids-get-home-at-night parent. With the kids, he is a master at “let’s go into the office and talk” (while closing the door behind him). I love my new relaxed and available husband. He was glad to get us settled into a house this summer.
Carol-current status, oh, that’s hard, it changes from minute to minute!
I am constantly reminding myself to enjoy each day with whatever comes my way and cherish this time with my children. They grow and change so quickly. Sometimes it’s fun and exciting and other times it’s heartbreaking. But overall, life is good and we’ll hang in there and keep moving forward!
Merry Christmas from our family and we wish the best for all our dear family and friends in the coming year!
1 comment:
oh this just made me miss you guys so much!!!! so glad everyone is doing so well. What a beautiful family...hope to see you in our future
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